Question
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Followup To
Question -
Greg,
I was hoping that you could provide some insight into what is happening to our cactus.  It seems to be dying??  I'm not sure of the type of cactus or what is causing this, but I'm hoping you can help us save it.  My mother had this cactus for about 15 years until she moved from Connecticut to Arizona two years ago.  I guess she didn't feel the need to move the 6 1/2 ft cactus with her.  :-)

Here are some pictures of the cactus and some closeups of the area's that are causing concern.  I would obviously love to revive the cactus as it is a gorgeous plant and we've have numerous compliments on the giant cacti in the Northeast.  

http://brookswarner.dyndns.org:88/gallery/view_album.php?set_albumName=house&pag

Any help you could provide would be greatly appreciated as well as tips for best care of the cacti in the future.  Thank you in advance.

Sincerely,

Brooks and Jenn

Answer -
Dear Brooks & Jenn,

Your cactus is actually a Euphorbia (an African version of the cactus). The picture of the stem being black and brown shows that particular branch is rotted and should be removed. There does appear to be many other healthy branches, so you don't have to worry unless the rotted stem is an offshoot of a main stem that I cannot see. If that is the case, do not water again for at least a few weeks.

That kind of damage can occur from age, cold temperatures or over watering. Euporbia's are especially sensitive to over watering. If it is an indoor plant, watering once a month should be sufficient, just make sure the soil is dry between waterings. Hope this helps!

Sincerely,

Greg
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Greg,
Thank you for your prompt responce and information.  I have a few more followup Questions:

I removed the one small stem that looked very rotten and wasn't sure about the large branch with a rotten looking base.  This one still feels firm at the top and was hoping it would be ok if the soil dries out.  Should the large stem also be removed?  If so, is it possible to but the healthy looking top off and transplant it into a different pot in hopes of saving that large branch?

What is the proper way to remove a rotted stem?

Thanks again for your help and information!

Sincerely,

Brooks & Jenn


Answer
Dear Brooks & Jenn,

If the stem is rotten to the top of the soil, pull it out. If it is a branch on an otherwise healthy plant, cut it off. And yes, you can cut off the healthy part and replant, just make sure you make the cut about 6" above any of the rotted areas.

Also, let it dry for a couple of weeks before replanting to allow the cut area to heal. Hopefully the rest of your plant is unaffected (considering it's age). Good luck!

Sincerely,

Greg